Current Medical Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Recurrent episodes of upper airway collapse during sleep cause obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Patients with OSA, a serious clinical condition, frequently halt or reduce their breathing while they are asleep. This results in non-restful, fragmented sleep, which exacerbates symptoms such as morning headaches and drowsiness during the day. Aims and objectives: This review article focuses only on the current medical treatment of OSA. It will also catalyse further study and better awareness of the current medical treatment of OSA. Materials and methods: A search was conducted for recent research articles on current medical treatment for OSA. We searched the PubMed, Scopus, Medline and Google Scholar online databases. Results: Heart arrhythmias, depression, hypertension and coronary artery disease are among the medical disorders linked to OSA. Clinical symptoms that are predictive include obesity, enlarged neck circumferences, gasping when sleeping and loud snoring. Those who are obese, hypertensive, frequent snorers and hyper-somnolent should be suspected of having OSA. An essential test for accurately diagnosing OSA is overnight polysomnography. Conclusion: As OSA is a chronic illness, a long-term, interdisciplinary strategy is required. The first step in managing OSA is patient education. For treatment of OSA, lifestyle changes including losing weight, switching to a different sleeping position, abstaining from alcohol and using certain drugs are crucial. When treating OSA, positive airway pressure is a crucial choice. Since OSA affects both the person and society as a whole, further investigation is needed to find novel treatment approaches for this morbid clinical condition.